Resident Doctors Extend Strike After Meeting with Health Ministry Fails

Resident Doctors Extend Strike After Meeting with Health Ministry Fails

Resident Doctors' Indefinite Strike Continues

Resident doctors in government hospitals across the country have extended their indefinite strike in protest against the brutal rape and murder of a trainee doctor in Kolkata. The strike, which began on Monday, has paralyzed elective services, including outpatient departments (OPDs) and non-emergency surgeries.

Failed Meeting with Health Ministry

The Federation of Resident Doctors' Association (FORDA) announced the extension of the strike after a meeting with officials from the Union Health Ministry on Monday failed to bring about any resolution. Despite extensive discussions, no concrete steps were agreed upon to address the demands of the protesting doctors.

Key Demands

The association's demands include:

  • Immediate acknowledgment of residents' concerns at R G Kar Medical College.
  • Assurance of protection against police brutality and respectful treatment of protesting doctors.
  • Swift justice and appropriate compensation for the family of the deceased doctor.
  • Implementation and enforcement of comprehensive security measures for healthcare workers in all hospitals.

Call for Central Healthcare Protection Act

In addition, FORDA has urged the Union government to expedite the ratification of the Central Healthcare Protection Act to safeguard the well-being of healthcare professionals. An expert committee should be established to fast-track this process with a clear timeline for completion.

Continuation of Emergency Services

While the strike continues, FORDA President Dr. Aviral Mathur confirmed that emergency services will remain operational, ensuring that critical care for patients is not compromised.

Impact on Healthcare Services

The ongoing strike has had a significant impact on healthcare services across the country, with elective procedures and consultations being delayed. The protesting doctors have pledged to persist with their agitation until their demands are fulfilled, urging immediate government intervention to resolve the crisis.